Hi, new to this so not sure what I'm doing!
Just diagnosed and recovering from surgery and chemo but the review appointment isn't till May 2oth. Still trying to get my head round going from fit, active, no symptoms to having treatment. Taking much longer than expected to pick up from surgery etc on the 21st and feeling quite isolated.
Anyway any advice etc welcome
Hi Nell54 and welcome to this friendly and supportive group, although I am sure you would rather not have to be here. The first thing to bear in mind is that bladder cancer can be treated successfully and many here can tell the tale. We know what a shock a diagnosis can be and the early days of uncertainty and not knowing can be the most stressful. Good to know you have had your surgery. Once you get your results and a confirmed diagnosis a treatment plan will be put in place. Try not to google as there is a lot of misinformation and confusion out there. Macmillan have produced information on BC which you can see by clicking HERE . Lots of experience so feel free to ask anything. Best wishes.
Thank you, that's very kind and helpful. I only was told (because I asked!) it was cancer literally 30 minutes before I went into theatre - the cystoscopy and pre op nurses were noncomittal. The staff were fabulous but I asked how soon I could start back on the indoor bike and was told give it a few days. I expected to bounce back quickly and have been doing too much! Trying to be sensible but find it hard to achieve a balance between getting back on my feet and taking it easy. Plus I feel guilty having to rely on my partner so much -he's 81 but very fit, but all the same. There's also the feeling that, you hear about people with cancer who are amazing, or brave, and I don't feel either, more of a nervous wreck at present. You're supposed to be positive and cheery but not me.
Anyway, whinge over, sorry! Hope it's OK to dump all this here, I don't want to burden him with a lot of it. Thanks again.
What a shock for you. I think we all underestimate that the body needs time to heal from an internal wound, as well as from the anesthetic. Just pace yourself, drink plenty and rest when you need to.
We are all familiar with the anxious wait for results, too. As rily says, BC is very treatable, often even curable. Don't be surprised if they want more tests done, just to ensure they have a full picture, before advising on the most appropriate treatment option(s). Hope all goes well for you.
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